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MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Transportation (DOTr) on Thursday encouraged local manufacturers to join the public utility vehicle modernization program (PUVMP).
In the Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon public briefing, DOTr Usec. Timothy Batan said that local manufactuers will make the jeepneys more affordable.
“Atin pong iniimbita at atin pong ini-encourage ang ating mga local manufacturers na sumali dito po sa ating PUV Modernization Program. Ito pong programa natin ay mayroon pong kaakibat na tinatawag nating Philippine National Standards,” said Batan.
(We invite and encourage local manufacturers to join here in the PUV Modernization Program. This program of ours coincides with the Philippine National Standards.)
However, Batan reminded local manufacturers that their designs should follow the minimum requirements prescribed by the government for modern jeepneys.
According to Batan, jeepneys from local manufacturers may be cheaper, and therefore more appealing to consolidated operators. It will also allow them more choices.
The PUVMP had been met with protests from transport groups like Piston and Manibela, but the deadline to consolidate jeepney franchises pushed through on December 31, 2023.